Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications wants to build a better voice trap. The joint venture between Japan-based consumer electronics maker Sony and Sweden-based Ericsson combines the cell phone operations of both companies. It was established to draw on the wireless technology of Ericsson, the world's leading maker of wireless network equipment, and Sony's expertise in developing popular consumer gadgetry; the companies phased out their separately-branded phones in favor of co-developed models. Sony Ericsson is squared off against such cell phone stalwarts as Nokia and Motorola, as well as Samsung (a relative newcomer to the industry). Sony and Ericsson each own half of the venture, which was founded in 2001.